Is ‘second season syndrome’ a myth for Sunderland after encouraging return? | OneFootball

Sunderland have enjoyed a strong first season back in the Premier League, remaining in the race for a European place as the season enters its final month. Attention now turns to whether so-called second season syndrome should worry them as they aim to bed in next term.

According to Sunderland Echo, a review of the last six Premier League campaigns found that only seven of 18 promoted clubs avoided immediate relegation.

Of those seven survivors, only one was relegated in year two, while others either held their ground or kicked on. Régis Le Bris has stressed constant improvement across the squad, club and coaching, including his game model and management, and acknowledged the unknowns of future competition.

Recent examples vary. Brentford finished 13th, then 9th. Aston Villa stayed up in 17th, then rose to 11th. Leeds took 9th, then slipped to 17th, while Sheffield United went from 9th to 20th and down.

The last two seasons were brutal for newcomers, with Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton all relegated in 2024/25, and Burnley, Sheffield United and Luton Town all dropping in 2023/24. By contrast, Fulham, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest survived 2022/23 and remain in the league, their second seasons producing bottom-half finishes, with Forest still fighting the drop.

The numbers suggest the syndrome is not inevitable for teams that progress, but comfort is not guaranteed. For Sunderland, the task Le Bris outlines is clear, keep moving forward and turn a bright return into staying power.

Source: Sunderland Echo